Pound Slips as Investors Await Economic Data and BoE’s Next Move

The pound faced a setback against the dollar on Tuesday as investors eagerly awaited crucial economic data and the Bank of England’s (BoE) decision on interest rates.

Amidst dwindling risk appetite in the market, the dollar gained strength, while the pound lost momentum following its impressive rally last week.

Last week, the BoE held interest rates steady at a 15-year high of 5.25% and warned of mounting inflation pressures. In contrast, the Federal Reserve hinted at the end of its tightening cycle.

This contrast catapulted the pound to a more than seven-week high of $1.2428 on Monday, but it retreated to $1.2300 on Tuesday, marking a 0.3% decline.

Money markets currently reflect a more than 50% likelihood of the BoE maintaining rates until June 2024, with an increased possibility of a rate cut in August next year.

Huw Pill, the BoE’s chief economist, indicated on Monday that the central bank might wait until mid-2024 before contemplating rate cuts. However, this statement failed to significantly bolster the pound.

Investors are eagerly anticipating a slew of economic data due on Friday, which includes indicators such as gross domestic product, trade balance, and industrial production.

Pound Trades Flat Against the Euro

An earlier Reuters survey disclosed that British consumer spending in October grew at the slowest pace in over a year due to rising living costs, which dampened the festive mood.

Meanwhile, the pound held steady against the euro, with the single currency trading at 86.85 pence.

The pound-dollar exchange rate remains a closely monitored indicator of the UK’s economic health and prospects.

In summary, the pound’s recent performance has been marked by fluctuations, influenced by contrasting central bank stances and economic concerns. Investors are now eagerly awaiting upcoming economic data to gauge the currency’s future trajectory.